Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

BARBITURATES - INJECTION

Uses

This medication is used to relieve nervousness, tension, or anxiety. It is used improve sleep disturbances such as insomnia. It is also used to treat seizure disorders.

How To Use

This medication must be administered as directed by your doctor. For insomnia, use 30 to 60 minutes prior to bedtime. Use exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take more often than prescribed. Do not stop using this medication without your doctor's approval. Your dose may have to be gradually decreased if you have been taking it for some time.

Side Effects

This medication causes drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid tasks requiring alertness. Other side effects may include headache, weakness, grogginess or dreaming. These effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, nosebleeds, confusion, hallucinations. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: breathing problems, porphyria (a blood disorder), heart problems, pain (chronic or acute), a history of alcohol or substance abuse, any allergies. Do not drink alcoholic beverages; alcohol adds to the drowsiness caused by this drug. Do not drive or engage in activities that require alertness. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in this product or in the liquid used to mix this product (diluent) can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death) if given by injection to an infant during the first months of life (neonatal period). The risk is greater with lower birth weight infants and is greater with increased amounts of benzyl alcohol. Symptoms include sudden gasping, low blood pressure, or a very slow heartbeat. Report these symptoms to the doctor immediately should they occur. If possible, a preservative-free product should be used when treating neonates. Elderly persons are usually more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use cautiously. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. This medication has been shown to pass into breast milk and cause harm to a nursing infant. Consult your doctor about breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

This medication can interact with many drugs. Before you take it, tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you are taking, including: anticoagulants ("blood thinners"), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), anti- seizure drugs, heart medications, thyroid medications, anti- depressants, narcotic pain medications (e.g., codeine). This medication can cause drowsiness which will be increased if you are also taking: antihistamines, sedatives, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, muscle relaxers. This drug may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include slowed or fast breathing; cold, clammy skin; change in size of pupil; deep sleep; and loss of consciousness.

Notes

Long-term use can lead to dependence. Take only as directed. Do not increase dose or take longer than prescribed. If tolerance and dependency develop, the medication will become less effective with prolonged use. If you develop severe pain while taking this medication, contact your doctor. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from sunlight.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).